April is the perfect time to spring clean your machine

By Official Release
April 14, 2009
10:11 AM EDT

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The heat is coming on. Your car is going to suffer, and your wallet may too if you don't prepare. Planning ahead and preparing your car may prevent it from needing an "unexpected" trip to the repair shop.

So, let's banish the winter blues and get ready to cruise this summer!

Auto Service

April is National Car Care Month -- the perfect time to visit your local repair shop and have a preventative maintenance inspection and checkup. For those who love their cars, it means the chance to scrub off winter's grit and grime and administer some well-deserved TLC.

To prepare for warm-weather driving, follow these important tips on how to spring clean your machine:

• Inspect antifreeze/coolant level and condition, making certain the proper 50/50 mixture of water and coolant is present.
• Check motor oil and condition. If driving under extreme conditions -- such as very hot temperatures -- switching to a motor oil with higher viscosity may be recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Always check the owner's manual for specific oil recommendations.
• Inspect and replace worn or cracked belts as well as worn, cracked, blistered, or soft radiator and heater hoses.
• Examine tires for uneven or excessive tread wear. Make sure all tires, including the spare, are inflated properly.
• Replace worn wiper blades.
• Check the air conditioning system. Some minor preventative maintenance can help restore the performance of your vehicle air conditioner.
• Hot weather can shorten the life of a car's battery, so weak or old batteries should be tested and replaced if necessary.
• Check fluid levels before, during and after a long road trip.
• Keep a log book of maintenance items and fuel economy. A sudden drop in fuel mileage could indicate mechanical problems.
• Once all this is completed, thoroughly wash your vehicle paying particular attention to the underside of the fenders where salt and sand accumulate and can rust away metal. Once the vehicle is clean a good waxing will help maintain your vehicle's appearance.

For a complete inspection, take your car to a repair shop today. Click here to find one or visit the NASCAR Performance Network family of repair shops.